Harmful Algae found in Daviess County’s Carpenter Lake

YELVINGTON, Ky. (WEHT) — In Daviess County, Kentucky officials are confirming Carpenter Lake has tested positive for a harmful algae bloom. The lake is a popular fishing spot, and The Kentucky Division of Water is warning people to take precaution.

Carpenter Lake is located in Yelvington, Ky., a city outside of Owensboro.

The Kentucky Division of Water and the Kentucky Department of Public Health says testing on Sept. 26 revealed a blue-green algae was present. The Center for Disease Control and Prevention says the algae can look like foam or paint on the surface of the water and releases a toxin that is best not to touch, be near or ingest.

Only one person living along the lake’s east side says they were aware of the warning. The remainder say they have numerous questions, including why there aren’t any signs posted to prevent people from coming into contact with the water.

Bryan Johnsen says he comes to the lake daily. “I just saw some kids running around over there whenever we were coming through. They’re pretty much at the water’s edge. They probably don’t even know. I mean, the water looks fine. You wouldn’t think anything of it,” says Johnsen.

For people, Officials say symptoms could include stomach pain, headaches or a rash. For pets, they says swallowing the contaminated water can be deadly.

Residents that live along the lake line say they don’t normally come into contact with the water. They say they’re concern is for the public. People shared seeing children occasionally swimming in the lake. Several people shared people have been fishing on the water all day.

Experts say the algae can also contaminate fish.

“The closest I’ve ever gotten to the water is, they have, water lilies. I took one out of the water for my wife, and so I went ankle deep about it.”

Officials says cooler temperatures at night will help the algae naturally die off.

The Department of Fish and Wildlife says they’ll have more information soon. Officials say they hope to develop a plan for next year.

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